When planning a session, one of the first questions to ask yourself is this:

Do you picture yourself surrounded by city energy or natural scenery?


Your location sets the tone for your entire gallery. It influences the mood, the colors, the movement, and even how you feel during the session. If you are unsure which direction to go, here is a simple way to think about it.

People walk along a snowy urban street with historic buildings and lampposts on a winter day in the city.
Friends enjoying a sunset stroll along Chicago's waterfront with the iconic skyline in the background.
A family relaxes together on green grass with a city skyline visible in the background on a sunny day.

The Urban Setting

City sessions feel bold, modern, and expressive. Think skyline views, architectural lines, clean backgrounds, and a little edge. Urban locations create contrast and structure, which makes your images feel polished and editorial.

If you love dressing up, enjoy a little drama in your photos, or want something that feels timeless and sophisticated, the city might be your perfect backdrop. Urban sessions are especially beautiful for couples, seniors, and branding portraits.

There is also something powerful about the movement of the city. Walking across a bridge, standing against textured stone, or capturing the skyline behind you adds depth and energy to your images.

Children in matching burgundy sweaters run and play on a leaf-covered path through autumn woods at sunset.
Family group poses together on a sandy beach at sunset while wearing coordinated pink and white outfits.
A group sits together on grass in a casual outdoor setting with autumn trees in the background.

The Nature Setting

Nature sessions feel soft, romantic, and relaxed. Open fields, tall grass, trees, beaches, and lakes create a calm atmosphere that allows you to move freely and feel at ease.

If you love warm golden light, natural tones, and candid moments, a nature setting might feel more like you. These sessions often bring out genuine smiles and playful interactions because there is space to breathe and move naturally.

Nature backdrops are perfect for families, maternity sessions, and couples who want something organic and heartfelt. The simplicity of the environment keeps the focus on connection and emotion.

A sequence of candid outdoor photos showing people relaxing and interacting on autumn grass with red foliage in background.
A group sits together on grass during a sunny autumn day with golden trees in the background.
Three friends sit together on a bench in an outdoor urban setting, engaged in casual conversation.

Still Not Sure

The best choice is the one that reflects your personality and the story you want to tell. Some people feel energized by the city. Others feel most themselves surrounded by water and trees.


There is no right or wrong answer. There is only what feels authentic to you.

If you are planning a session and feel stuck between urban and nature, I am always happy to guide you based on your vision, style, and comfort level.


Together, we will choose a setting that feels like you and creates images you will love for years to come.